Debra Thurlow

Debra Laine Thurlow, 69, of Spring Lake, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home in Spring Lake North Carolina on Saturday, August 9, 2025.

Debra was born on June 22, 1956, in San Pedro, California, to the late Robert Steelman and Shirley Allen.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 39 years, Dwain Robert Thurlow; children, Michelle Adams, Mallory Thurlow, Ryan Thurlow, Calli Thurlow, and Tyler Thurlow; grandchildren, Asher, Willow, and Marcos; siblings, Vicki Hammitt, Tammy Tolliver and Steven Phelps; seven nieces and nephews and many grand nieces and nephews.

Debra dedicated her life to fostering a love of family as she raised her five children and her home was always open to all the nieces and nephews and grandchildren. There was no distance too great for her to travel and see all the family.

Debra and Dwain moved their family from California to Spring Lake, NC in 2007 where Debra began working in the schools library, where she continued for more than a decade. She also found her church (Layton Chapel Baptist Church) where she volunteered for nursery and taught children's Sunday school. Always active in any church social function, Debra will be remembered for her gentle spirit, dedication to serving, and the warmth she shared with all who knew her.

There will be a visitation for family and friends at Layton Chapel Baptist Church on Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 10:00am until 11:00am. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00am.